Travel Guide to Hamilton
Discover Hamilton, New Zealand's green heart, where lush gardens, scenic rivers, and vibrant culture create an unforgettable travel experience.
Hamilton: The Green Heart of New Zealand
Hamilton, nestled in the heart of New Zealand's North Island, is a vibrant city known for its lush gardens, scenic river, and rich cultural heritage. As you stroll through the city, you'll discover the beautiful Hamilton Gardens, a world-class attraction showcasing themed gardens from different cultures and eras. Whether you're exploring the Italian Renaissance Garden or the serene Japanese Garden, each space offers a unique and tranquil experience. The Waikato River, which runs through Hamilton, provides numerous opportunities for outdoor activities. From leisurely river cruises to kayaking adventures, the river is a hub of activity for both locals and tourists. The picturesque riverside walks and cycling trails offer stunning views and a chance to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the region. Hamilton also boasts a vibrant arts and culture scene. The Waikato Museum offers insightful exhibitions on the region's history and Maori culture, while the city's diverse range of restaurants and cafes serves up delicious local and international cuisine. Don't miss out on the lively Hamilton nightlife, with its array of bars, live music venues, and entertainment options that ensure a fun-filled evening. For those interested in wildlife, Hamilton Zoo is home to a variety of exotic and native animals, set in a lush, green environment. The nearby Hobbiton Movie Set, located in Matamata, is a must-visit for fans of 'The Lord of the Rings' and 'The Hobbit,' offering guided tours through the iconic film set.
Local tips in Hamilton
- Visit Hamilton Gardens early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
- Take a river cruise on the Waikato River for a relaxing way to see the city from a different perspective.
- Rent a bike and explore the riverside cycling trails for a scenic and active adventure.
- Check out the local farmers' markets for fresh produce and unique handmade crafts.
- Book your Hobbiton Movie Set tour in advance to secure your spot, especially during peak tourist seasons.
- Try the local cuisine at one of Hamilton's many cafes and restaurants for a taste of New Zealand flavors.
Popular Attractions in Hamilton
Hamilton, New Zealand offers a diverse range of attractions for visitors to explore. From the picturesque Hamilton Gardens with its themed gardens showcasing different cultures, to the vibrant arts and culture scene at the Waikato Museum, there is something for everyone. Nature lovers can enjoy the stunning views at Bridal Veil Falls and the nearby Waitomo Caves, while adrenaline junkies can try their hand at jet boating on the Waikato River. For those interested in history, a visit to the Hamilton East Cemetery and the historic Hamilton Old Courthouse is a must. With a bustling food and wine scene, as well as markets and festivals throughout the year, Hamilton is a destination that promises a memorable experience for all visitors.
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Explore the stunning Hamilton Gardens – a lush, cultural oasis showcasing themed gardens and breathtaking landscapes in New Zealand.
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Discover Hamilton Zoo - where wildlife thrives and education meets adventure in the heart of New Zealand.
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Explore Hamilton Lake Domain, a picturesque park in New Zealand, boasting serene landscapes, vibrant trails, and family-friendly activities for all.
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Explore the Classics Museum in Hamilton, NZ - A Journey Through Time with Vintage Cars and Historical Artifacts.
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Delve into the rich cultural heritage and artistic expressions at Waikato Museum, a premier tourist attraction in Hamilton, New Zealand.
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Explore the breathtaking beauty of Taitua Arboretum, a serene botanical haven in Hamilton, New Zealand, perfect for nature lovers and peaceful retreats.
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Experience the finest New Zealand teas at Zealong Tea Estate, where lush landscapes and exquisite flavors unite in a tranquil setting.
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Discover Claudelands Park, a scenic retreat in Hamilton, New Zealand, offering lush landscapes, a vibrant playground, and inviting pathways for all visitors.
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Experience the tranquil beauty of Parana Park, a scenic urban oasis in Hamilton perfect for relaxation, recreation, and family fun.
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Explore the serene beauty of Garden Place in Hamilton, a lush park perfect for relaxation, community events, and vibrant local culture.
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Explore Innes Common, a tranquil city park by Hamilton Lake, perfect for relaxation, recreation, and enjoying nature's beauty.
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Experience the serene charm of Swarbrick Landing, a picturesque park in Hamilton perfect for relaxation, picnics, and outdoor activities.
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Experience the enchanting beauty of the Italian Renaissance Garden, a serene escape in Hamilton, showcasing stunning floral designs and elegant landscapes.
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Discover breathtaking views and serene landscapes with Balloons Over Waikato’s unforgettable hot air balloon experiences.
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Experience the tranquility of Victoria On The River, a serene park offering scenic views and lush landscapes in the heart of Hamilton Central.
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Unleash your inner racer at Blastacars Drift Karts in Hamilton, where thrilling drift karting adventures await for all ages.
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Discover the tranquil beauty of Munros Reserve in Hamilton, New Zealand, where nature trails and scenic views await every visitor.
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Discover the serene beauty of Till's Lookout in Hamilton – a park with breathtaking views of nature's splendor.
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Discover the tranquility of Indian Char Bagh Garden, where vibrant flora meets traditional Indian design in a serene oasis.
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Discover the stunning Ancient Egyptian Garden in Hamilton, a captivating blend of culture and nature that transports you to another world.
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Immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty and rich heritage of Te Parapara, a unique Māori garden experience in Hamilton Gardens.
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Explore the vibrant beauty of Hamilton Lake Rose Garden, a floral haven with over 1,500 rose varieties, perfect for relaxation and photography.
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Experience the beauty of the Tudor Garden at Hamilton Gardens, where history meets horticulture in a stunning natural setting.
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Discover the Riff Raff Statue in Hamilton, a vibrant homage to Richard O'Brien and the iconic Rocky Horror Show, celebrating local culture and creativity.
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Discover the Surrealist Garden in Hamilton, a captivating blend of art and nature, inviting exploration and inspiration at every turn.
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Experience the serene beauty of Mansfield Garden, a lush paradise in Hamilton, New Zealand, featuring themed gardens and tranquil landscapes.
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Discover the enchanting beauty of Rogers Rose Garden in Hamilton, a floral haven featuring thousands of roses and serene landscapes perfect for relaxation.
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Explore the lush landscapes and rich biodiversity of Waiwhakareke Natural Heritage Park, a serene escape in Hamilton, New Zealand.
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Discover the tranquil beauty of Moondance Manor Gardens, a botanical paradise in Hamilton, New Zealand, perfect for nature lovers and peaceful retreats.
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Experience serenity and spirituality at St Andrews Anglican Church, a stunning architectural gem in the heart of Cambridge, New Zealand.
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Explore the enchanting Hamilton Gardens, a captivating tourist attraction in Waikato showcasing themed gardens from around the world.
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Explore the Modernist Garden in Hamilton, a stunning blend of nature and art offering tranquility and beauty in every corner.
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Explore tranquility at the Japanese Garden of Contemplation in Hamilton, a serene escape showcasing Japanese landscaping and nature's beauty.
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Explore the Sustainable Backyard in Hamilton: A serene park and garden highlighting eco-friendly practices and stunning native plant life.
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Discover the excitement of immersive puzzles and teamwork at Confinement Escape Rooms in Hamilton, a top tourist attraction for unforgettable adventures.
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Discover the serene beauty of A J Seeley Gully Reserve, a tranquil park in Hamilton East perfect for nature walks, picnics, and relaxation amidst lush greenery.
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Discover the beauty of Hamilton's Kitchen Garden, a tranquil oasis showcasing sustainable gardening in lush landscapes.
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Experience the tranquility and natural beauty of Taitua Arboretum, a serene country park in Hamilton, perfect for a peaceful retreat amidst nature.
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Explore the beauty of Hamilton Lake Walkway, a serene park perfect for walks, picnics, and connecting with nature in Hamilton, New Zealand.
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Discover tranquility at Picturesque Garden, a serene oasis in Hamilton, showcasing diverse flora and stunning landscapes perfect for all nature lovers.
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Explore the serene beauty of Hammond Camellia Garden, a tranquil escape with stunning floral displays in Hamilton East, New Zealand.
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Discover Hinemoa Park, a serene urban oasis in Hamilton Central, perfect for relaxation, picnics, and family fun amidst lush greenery.
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Experience the tranquil beauty of Waikato River Walk, where nature meets relaxation along the stunning riverside in Hamilton, New Zealand.
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Discover the enchanting beauty of Hamilton Gardens, featuring stunning tropical landscapes and serene walking paths in a cultural oasis.
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Discover the serenity of Miropiko Park, a peaceful retreat in Claudelands, Hamilton, perfect for nature lovers and tranquility seekers.
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Discover a world of interactive learning and fun at Exscite, Hamilton's premier children's museum for curious minds.
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Explore Barrett Bush Scenic Reserve, a tranquil national forest in Hamilton, NZ, perfect for hiking, birdwatching, and immersing in nature's beauty.
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Experience the serene beauty and stunning views of Mount Taupiri, a must-visit mountain peak near Huntly, New Zealand.
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Experience the tranquility and natural beauty of Railway Park in Hamilton, a perfect spot for relaxation and enjoying the outdoors.
Your Ultimate Travel Guide to Hamilton
When is the best time to go to Hamilton?
Local Phrases
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- HelloKia ora
[kee-ah or-ah] - GoodbyeHaere rā
[high-ree rah] - YesĀe
[eye] - NoKāo
[ka-oh] - Please/You're welcomeTēnā koa
[ten-ah koh-ah] - Thank youNgā mihi
[nah mee-hee] - Excuse me/SorryWhakapāha
[fah-kah-pa-ha] - How are you?Kei te pēhea koe?
[kay teh pay-hay-ah koh-eh] - Fine. And you?Kei te pai. Ā, koe?
[kay teh pie. eye, koh-eh] - Do you speak English?Ka korero koe i te reo Pākehā?
[ka kor-air-oh koh-eh ee teh reh-oh pah-keh-hah] - I don't understandKaore au e mohio
[ka-or-eh oh eh moh-hee-oh]
- HelloKia ora
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- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMe tirohia te wharangi, tēnā
[meh tee-roh-hee-ah teh fah-rang-ee, ten-ah] - I don't eat meatKaore au e kai kau
[ka-or-eh oh eh kai kow] - Cheers!Ārahi!
[eye-rah-hee] - I would like to pay, pleaseMe utu ahau, tēnā
[meh oo-too ah-how, ten-ah]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMe tirohia te wharangi, tēnā
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- Help!Āwhina!
[eye-fee-nah] - Go away!Haere atu!
[high-ree ah-too] - Call the Police!Karanga ki te Pirihimana!
[kah-rung-ah kee teh pee-ree-hee-mah-nah] - Call a doctor!Karanga ki te Rata!
[kah-rung-ah kee teh rah-tah] - I'm lostI wareware au
[ee wah-reh-wah-reh oh] - I'm illKei te he mate au
[kay teh heh mah-teh oh]
- Help!Āwhina!
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- I'd like to buy...Ka hiahia au ki te hoko...
[ka hee-ah-hee-ah oh kee teh hoh-koh] - I'm just lookingKa titiro ahau
[ka tee-tee-roh ah-how] - How much is it?He aha te utu?
[he ah-hah teh oo-too] - That's too expensiveHe roa rawa te utu
[he roh-ah rah-wah teh oo-too] - Can you lower the price?Ka taea e koe te whakaiti i te utu?
[ka tie-ah eh koh-eh teh fah-kai-tee ee teh oo-too]
- I'd like to buy...Ka hiahia au ki te hoko...
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- What time is it?He aha te wa?
[he ah-hah teh wah] - It's one o'clockKo te tahi te haora
[koh teh tah-hee teh how-rah] - Half past (10)Tekau me te toru
[teh-kow meh teh tor-roo] - MorningAta
[ah-tah] - AfternoonAhiahi
[ah-hee-ah-hee] - EveningPō
[paw] - YesterdayTūwhena
[too-feh-nah] - TodayTēnei rā
[ten-ay rah] - TomorrowĀpōpō
[eye-paw-paw] - 1Tahi
[tah-hee] - 2Rua
[roo-ah] - 3Toru
[tor-roo] - 4Whā
[fah] - 5Rima
[ree-mah] - 6Ono
[oh-no] - 7Whitu
[fee-too] - 8Waru
[wah-roo] - 9Iwa
[ee-wah] - 10Tekau
[teh-kow]
- What time is it?He aha te wa?
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- Where's a/the...?Kei hea te...?
[kay heh-ah teh] - What's the address?Ko te wāhitau hea?
[koh teh wah-hee-tow heh-ah] - Can you show me (on the map)?Taea e koe te whakaatu mai ki ahau (i runga i te mahere)?
[tie-ah eh koh-eh teh fah-kah-ah-too my kih ah-how ee roon-gah ee teh mah-heh-reh] - When's the next (bus)?Āhea te taha?
[eye-heh-ah teh tah-hah] - A ticket (to ....)He tiketi (ki ...)
[heh ti-keh-tee kee]
- Where's a/the...?Kei hea te...?
History of Hamilton
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The area now known as Hamilton was originally settled by various Māori iwi (tribes), including Ngāti Wairere, Ngāti Hauā, and Ngāti Mahanga. The fertile lands along the Waikato River provided an ideal environment for agriculture and settlement. Archaeological evidence suggests that Māori have inhabited the region for over 700 years.
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European exploration of the Waikato region began in the early 19th century. Missionaries and traders were among the first to arrive, establishing contact with local Māori communities. In 1863, during the New Zealand Wars, British forces established a military base at Kirikiriroa, the Māori name for Hamilton, as part of their campaign to control the Waikato region.
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In 1864, the town was officially named Hamilton after Captain John Fane Charles Hamilton, a British naval officer who was killed during the Battle of Gate Pā in the Tauranga campaign. The town was laid out in a grid pattern, and land was allocated to British settlers as part of the government's efforts to colonize the region.
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Hamilton's location along the Waikato River made it a natural hub for agricultural development. The fertile plains supported dairy farming, which became the backbone of the local economy. The establishment of agricultural research institutions, such as the Ruakura Agricultural Research Centre in the early 20th century, further bolstered the region's agricultural productivity.
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Throughout the 20th century, Hamilton evolved into a significant economic center in New Zealand. The development of infrastructure, including the construction of the Frankton Railway Station and the Hamilton Airport, facilitated trade and transportation. The city also became a center for education and research with the founding of the University of Waikato in 1964.
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Hamilton has grown into one of New Zealand's most diverse and vibrant cities. The annual Hamilton Gardens Arts Festival celebrates the city's cultural richness, showcasing performances, art installations, and workshops. The city is also home to a variety of cultural institutions, including the Waikato Museum and the Gallagher Academy of Performing Arts, which highlight both Māori and European heritage.
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One of Hamilton's most iconic attractions, the Hamilton Gardens, is a public garden complex that showcases various themed gardens from different cultures and historical periods. Opened in 1960, the gardens have become a symbol of the city's commitment to cultural and environmental preservation. Each garden tells a story, reflecting the diverse influences that have shaped Hamilton over the centuries.
Hamilton Essentials
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Hamilton is located in the Waikato region of New Zealand's North Island. The nearest major airport is Auckland International Airport, about 125 kilometers north of Hamilton. From Auckland, you can either rent a car, which takes roughly 1.5 to 2 hours to drive, or take an intercity bus service directly to Hamilton, which takes about 2 to 2.5 hours. There are also regional flights available from Wellington and Christchurch to Hamilton Airport, situated just 14 kilometers from the city center.
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Hamilton offers various modes of transportation including buses, taxis, and rental cars. The local bus service, operated by Busit, covers most parts of the city and its suburbs. Taxis are readily available and can be hailed on the street or booked via phone or mobile apps. If you prefer more flexibility, car rental services are available at the airport and in the city. For a leisurely experience, consider cycling; Hamilton has a network of cycle paths that make it easy to explore the city.
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The official currency in New Zealand is the New Zealand Dollar (NZD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Hamilton, including Visa, MasterCard, and American Express. ATMs are plentiful throughout the city, and contactless payment options like Apple Pay and Google Pay are also commonly used. While most establishments accept cards, it’s a good idea to carry some cash for smaller vendors or markets.
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Hamilton is generally a safe city for tourists, but it is advisable to take standard precautions. Areas such as the central business district (CBD) and Hamilton East are generally safe, but it's best to avoid the suburb of Fairfield at night, as it has a higher rate of crime targeting tourists, including petty theft and vehicle break-ins. Always be aware of your surroundings and keep personal belongings secure.
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In case of an emergency, dial 111 for police, fire, or medical assistance. Waikato Hospital in Hamilton is the main medical facility offering emergency services. Pharmacies are available throughout the city for minor health issues. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For non-urgent medical issues, there are several medical centers and urgent care clinics.
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Fashion: Do dress in layers as the weather can be unpredictable. Casual wear is generally acceptable, but smart casual is recommended for dining out. Religion: Do respect all religious customs and places of worship. Public Transport: Do be courteous to drivers and fellow passengers. Don't eat or drink on public buses. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile and a handshake. A friendly 'Kia Ora' (hello) is appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and wines. Don’t tip excessively; New Zealand does not have a strong tipping culture, though it is appreciated for exceptional service.
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To experience Hamilton like a local, visit the Hamilton Farmers' Market on Sundays for fresh produce and local crafts. Take a stroll along the Waikato River and visit Hamilton Gardens, a local favorite for its beautiful themed gardens. Engage with locals at cafes and bars; they are often friendly and willing to share tips and stories about the city. For a unique experience, attend a local rugby match to see the Waikato team in action.
Trending Landmark in Hamilton
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Hamilton Gardens
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Hamilton Lake Domain
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Hamilton Zoo
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Waikato Museum
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Taitua Arboretum
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Classics Museum
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Seddon Park
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Cathedral of the Blessed Virgin Mary
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Hamilton New Zealand Temple
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The Sculpture Park at Waitakaruru Arboretum
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Wellington Street Beach
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Riff Raff Statue - Celebrating Richard O'Brien & The Rocky Horror Show
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Tudor Garden
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Te Parapara
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The Riverbank Lane
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